Academic and social experiences of undergraduate college students at a branch campus

Abstract

Previous research about undergraduate students with nontraditional college experiences has focused primarily on students’ demographic characteristics, their deficits compared to residential students, and their risk for attrition. This case study conducted at a university branch campus in the Midwest examined undergraduate college experiences at a campus where nontraditional college experiences are typical. Case study findings revealed that college students were defined by their rich and detailed biography of prior life experiences, successes and challenges for student transition, and experiences with academic and social engagement. Findings also revealed students’ strong sense of motivation and ability to thrive and succeed in college. Abstract Approved: __________________________________ Thesis SupervisorApproved: __________________________________ Thesis Supervisor __________________________________ Title and Department __________________________________ Date ACADEMIC AND SOCIAL EXPERIENCES OF UNDERGRADUATE COLLEGE STUDENTS AT A BRANCH CAMPUS: A CASE STUDY by Kristi S. Mindrup A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in Educational Policy and Leadership Studies (Higher Education and Student Affairs) in the Graduate College of The University of Iowa